Car Hire in Tenerife: Cicar, Autoreisen or TopCar?
Cicar, Autoreisen and TopCar are the three local champions of car hire in Tenerife. But which one should you choose for the best mix of price, insurance and service?
Top 3 local companies
with clear conditions
Renting a car in Tenerife is almost essential if you want to truly explore the island. Of course, you can use the big international rental brands, but if you read forums or check independent reviews, three local names pop up again and again: Cicar, Autoreisen and TopCar.
These are Canarian companies that often beat the large multinationals on price, transparency and service. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of the three most popular options, including their biggest advantages and small drawbacks, and some guidance to help you decide which one is the best fit for your trip.
Cicar – my #1 for truly worry‑free rentals
Super comprehensive insurance & many locationsIf your main goal is to have zero stress about insurance and small print, Cicar is often the best option. This local company has been around for decades and is constantly recommended on travel forums and review platforms.
- Fully comprehensive insurance with no excess – no nasty surprises at the desk.
- Glass, mirrors and tyres are covered as standard in the insurance.
- Unlimited mileage and a second driver usually included free of charge.
- Child seats can be added without extreme surcharges.
- Lots of offices: both airports (Tenerife South – TFS and Tenerife North – TFN) plus popular resorts such as Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos and Los Gigantes.
- Often slightly more expensive than Autoreisen for the same category, although the price difference is usually modest.
- Experience can vary a bit per office and season – in high season you might need to wait a little longer at the counter.
Autoreisen – best all‑round price & transparency
Clear all‑in pricing, no hard upsellAutoreisen is probably the best‑known “insider tip” for car hire in the Canary Islands. In many comparisons and travel blogs, it scores extremely well, mainly thanks to its very transparent all‑in pricing.
- Local Canarian company with an excellent reputation in reviews and independent surveys.
- Real all‑in prices with standard zero excess insurance – no own risk, no weird add‑ons.
- No hidden fees, often no or low deposit, and an additional driver usually included free of charge.
- Offices directly at Tenerife South (TFS) and Tenerife North (TFN); cars are parked right at or close to the terminal, so no shuttle bus.
- Cars are sometimes a little older and have more kilometres than those at TopCar, although they are generally in good condition.
- If you absolutely want a very new model, TopCar or Cicar may be a better fit.
TopCar – solid third with a modern fleet
Newer cars & lots of model optionsTopCar is a very appealing choice if you like driving a newer or more specific model. Their fleet is often quite modern and includes plenty of different categories, from small city cars to larger SUVs and family cars.
- Modern fleet with many recent models, including hybrids and sometimes fully electric cars.
- Offices at Tenerife South (TFS), Tenerife North (TFN) and in Costa Adeje.
- Unlimited mileage and often a free additional driver included.
- Free cancellation and, in many cases, no prepayment required – you pay on arrival.
- Many reviews praise the clean, new cars and fairly quick handover process.
- Some reviews mention longer queues at the counter in busy periods, and occasional discussions about fuel level or contract details.
- Prices are usually around – or slightly higher than – Autoreisen for the same category.
Which company is the best match for you?
Still hesitating between Cicar, Autoreisen and TopCar? Use this quick “choice helper”. Each company shines in slightly different areas, so the best one really depends on what you personally value most.
If budget is your main focus but you still want to avoid any hassle at the desk with extra insurances and hidden fees:
- 1. Autoreisen – usually the cheapest true all‑in option.
- 2. Cicar – sometimes a touch more expensive, but extremely carefree.
Want to be totally relaxed about damage, excess and coverage, and have lots of locations to drop by if needed?
- 1. Cicar – perfect if you never want to worry about the policy.
- 2. Autoreisen – also very all‑inclusive, but with fewer resort offices.
Prefer to drive the latest models, maybe hybrid or a specific class (for example SUV or automatic)?
- 1. TopCar – modern fleet and lots of choice in model and transmission.
- 2. Cicar – also often quite new cars, with excellent coverage.
Practical tips before you book
Whichever company you choose, always double‑check the details on the website or in your confirmation email. At a minimum, pay attention to the following points:
- Unlimited mileage – this is usually included with these three, but it’s still worth confirming, especially if you plan to drive a lot.
- Insurance & excess – check if there is an excess, and whether glass, tyres and mirrors are covered. With Cicar and Autoreisen it is often truly all‑inclusive.
- Deposit and card requirements – how much is blocked as a deposit, and is a credit card mandatory or is a debit card also accepted? Some firms are more flexible than others.
- Extra driver & child seats – many local companies include a second driver for free, but it’s good to verify this per booking. Child seats may sometimes incur a small daily fee.
- Airport and drop‑off location – are you flying into Tenerife South (TFS), Tenerife North (TFN) or both? Check the price if you want to pick up the car at one location and drop it off at another.
Pro tip: whenever possible, book directly via the official website of Cicar, Autoreisen or TopCar, or through a solid comparison site with good conditions. Using the affiliate links below supports this site at no extra cost to you.